Songs of the Warrior
Songs of the Warrior, a Brass Quintet in three movements, utilizes thematic material derived from a twelve-tone row, presented in three contrasting styles. While the piece stands on its own as absolute music following traditional formal structures, the titles of each movement do suggest a setting befitting the mood or atmosphere evoked by the music.
I. The Cannon’s Mouth
Following a slightly modified version of the classical sonata allegro form, this movement presents the thematic material in a freely atonal setting, Much use is made of variations of ancient two note war-horn calls, which would command soldiers to advance into direct combat with an enemy.
II. Amidst the Fallen
The second movement evokes images of the aftermath of battle and the horrors left on the field of war. Dynamic and rhythmic elements in the music produce a classic arch form. Melodic and harmonic structures are developed throughout the movement.
III. Revelry
A complete departure in style from the previous movements, Revelry features upbeat modal harmony and foot-tapping rhythms. Thematic material borrowed from the earlier movements is transformed to conform to the desired atmosphere. The form of the movement is best described as a hybrid rondo and variations. The light-hearted mood is perhaps a reflection of the joy found when a soldier returns to his home.
This quintet presents three stylistically distinct movements, yet all are based on the same thematic sources. The first movement is somewhat cerebral and demands much virtuosity from the performers. The second is darker, with some almost lyrical melodic lines. The final movement is nothing if not bombastic. All-in-all, Songs of the Warrior provides a little something for everyone, from Berlioz to Schoenberg, with a little Bernstein on the side.
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